The Ocean Geographic Maldives Mantas & Whale Sharks Expedition: A Majestic Sight

Maldivian enthusiasts were offered an exceptional opportunity to participate in a distinctive expedition with Michael AW and Ocean Geographic that takes participants through the picturesque atolls in the archipelago. Taking place between September 28th and October 8th, the quest focused on locating mantas and whale sharks, for which the Maldives is renowned above other known habitats for these marine creatures.

The phenomenon of mantas and whale sharks feeding in Baa Atoll is an unparalleled spectacle found nowhere else on Earth, supported by scientific documentation and photographic evidence. This captivating event occurs when celestial and environmental elements align, creating a vortex where up to 200 mantas and whale sharks gather on the water’s surface to feed on swarms of wriggling plankton. The reefs in the Maldives are a testament to nature’s underwater wonders, teeming with reef fish in remarkable abundance. This sanctuary free from threats such as spearguns and dynamite allows divers and snorkelers to observe these fish thriving harmoniously. The experience was quite different from usual attractions, such as the Maldives fishing centre, and visitors enthusiastically flew to the island to take up accommodation at properties such as Adaaran Club Rannalhi so they could join the expedition within the available timeframe.